Nags Head Beach
Nags Head, NC
Nags Head Beach runs along the central Outer Banks between Jockey's Ridge and the South Nags Head accesses, backed by cottages instead of high-rises. Dozens of numbered public accesses feed onto the sand, most with free parking, which spreads visitors out more than the crowd numbers would suggest.
Free parking at dozens of accesses spreads the crowd out better than almost anywhere else on the Banks, though the cottage-lined shoreline means fewer amenities than the bigger tourist strips.
How we score beachesThe Hargrove Street access has one of the largest lots in town and rarely fills before noon, even in July, while the smaller street-end accesses closer to the pier go first.
Public beach accesses are free, no meters, though overnight parking isn't allowed and gets ticketed. Lots range from a handful of spaces at street ends to the larger Hargrove Street access.
Most accesses use a wooden walkover ramp across the dune line, and several have showers and restrooms. A few of the smaller street ends are just a sand path with no ramp.
Dogs are allowed on Nags Head's beaches year-round on a leash 10 feet or shorter, and most accesses have a station stocked with waste bags.
Water temperatures peak in the upper 70s through August, during Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June through November and is worth watching before booking a late summer week. Fall brings some of the clearest, calmest days of the year once the crowds clear out.
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